This publication provides monthly estimates of stocks and use for wheat, and quarterly estimates for barley as well as selected other grains and pulses for selected manufacturing and agricultural businesses, licensed exporters and bulk grain handlers. These estimates are compiled from various surveys conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), including the Grain Handlers Stocks Survey, Wheat Use Survey, Wheat Export Sales Survey, and from administrative data relating to wheat grain exports. Estimates from the surveys are combined with export trade data to provide monthly estimates of the volume of wheat grain stored, used, or committed for use.

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) uses these data to compile a monthly report on the Australian wheat industry.

The current scope and coverage of the collections is understood to account for the majority of Australia's grain stored, used and committed.

The ABS welcomes any comments from readers regarding the usefulness, range and quality of the statistics presented in this publication. Comments can be forwarded to: The Environment and Agriculture Business Statistics Centre, Australian Bureau of Statistics, GPO Box 66, Hobart TAS 7001. Alternatively, email <agriculture.statistics@abs.gov.au> or phone (03) 6222 5939.

CHANGES IN THIS AND FORTHCOMING ISSUES

As a result of an ongoing review and changing data needs amongst key clients, collection of estimates of stocks and use of barley and selected other grains and pulses will cease.

This and future editions of this publication will include data on stocks of barley and selected other grains and pulses only. Updated estimates of stocks of barley and selected other grains and pulses will be provided in the March 2011 edition of this publication. Data on use of barley and selected other grains and pulses is no longer collected. The publication of monthly data on wheat stocks, use and commitments will continue unchanged.

Further information may be obtained by emailing <agriculture.statistics@abs.gov.au> or by calling (03) 6222 5909.

INQUIRIES

For further information about these and related statistics, contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.